Pisa Xayapheth, a 30-year-old resident of Fresno, California, tragically lost his life on July 14, 2018. Pisa was the owner of Fresh Ink Tattoo Studio, a well-known establishment in the Tower District of Fresno. On the night of his death, Pisa was at his tattoo parlor when he was fatally shot by one of his newer employees, Cruz Pedro Hinojosa. The incident also claimed the life of another employee, Jesse Hernandez III, and left a third person, Kristina Widener, injured but alive.
The shooting occurred inside the tattoo shop, a place where Pisa had built a reputation for his artistry and community spirit.
Following the tragic event, Cruz Pedro Hinojosa, aged 27 at the time, turned himself in to the authorities. He was subsequently charged with multiple felony counts, including the murders of Pisa Xayapheth and Jesse Hernandez, as well as the attempted murder of Kristina Widener. The charges against Hinojosa included the use of a firearm in the commission of these crimes, which significantly increased the severity of the charges. Hinojosa was held in custody at the Fresno County Jail and faced a potential life sentence if convicted.
The Fresno County District Attorney's Office filed a felony complaint against Hinojosa, detailing the events of the night and the charges he faced. The complaint outlined that Hinojosa had acted with malice aforethought in the murders of Xayapheth and Hernandez. The case garnered significant attention in the local community, both due to the violent nature of the crime and the impact on the local business community. Pisa Xayapheth was remembered fondly by friends, family, and clients for his generosity, sense of humor, and the artistic legacy he left behind through his tattoo work.
The legal proceedings against Cruz Hinojosa were closely followed, with his arraignment taking place shortly after the incident. The case highlighted issues of workplace violence and the importance of community support in the aftermath of such tragedies. As the community mourned the loss of Pisa Xayapheth, efforts were made to support his family, including fundraising initiatives to help cover memorial costs and provide for his two young sons. The case remains a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the lasting impact of violence on families and communities.
